Managing moderately severe depression
Depression is very common, but also very treatable. With the right care — including therapy, medication, or a combination of both — most people with depression feel better and enjoy life more.
Mental health services at Kaiser Permanente
Talk with your doctor about your symptoms or call us to connect to care — we’ll help you access the clinical services and support you need. You don’t need a referral to access mental health care.
Individual and group therapy
Therapy can help you explore your feelings and understand your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. It can also guide you in taking proactive steps to feel better.
Learn more about therapy and other care options.
Peer support
You don't have to go it alone. Online communities and in-person support groups offer a place to share information and connect with others who have similar health concerns.
Medication
Antidepressants change the balance of chemicals in the brain that often cause depression. You may need to try several antidepressants before you find the one that works best for you. Talk to your doctor about whether antidepressants might be right for you.
Common medications for depression include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft).
- Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as venlafaxine (Effexor), venlafaxine SR (Effexor XR), and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
- Other antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR), mirtazapine (Remeron), and trazodone (Desyrel).
See all care options
If you have depression, we have a range of care options depending on your symptoms.
Take the self-assessment
Depression is a real – and common – medical condition that can affect your mind, body, and spirit. Take this self-assessment to see if you have any symptoms of depression.
Reviewed by Nolan Thompson, MD, April 2019.